Austin News

Governor Greg Abbott highlighted the increasing support for school choice in Texas during a media event at Kingdom Life Academy in Tyler. He emphasized the desire for school choice among various demographic groups, particularly Hispanics and African Americans. "School choice is wanted by all demographic groups in the state of Texas," Abbott stated. He stressed that parents are best positioned to decide their children's educational paths, which could lead to improved opportunities for minority and low-income students.

Abbott expressed optimism following recent election results, suggesting that Texas is now poised to offer school choice statewide while continuing to support public schools and enhance job training education. "Texas will finally be able to provide school choice for every Texan," he said.

Joel Enge, Founder and Director of Kingdom Life Academy, echoed Abbott's sentiments on the significance of school choice for Black and Hispanic students. "We desperately need school choice to open opportunities for schools like Kingdom Life Academy," Enge remarked. He underscored the importance of alternative education options in communities needing them most.

Abbott was joined by board members and teachers from Kingdom Life Academy, including an alumnus of the institution. The Governor pointed to election outcomes as indicative of the backing needed to pass school choice legislation in the upcoming session. He also outlined legislative priorities such as maintaining full funding for public education, raising teacher pay, and boosting job training programs.

Enge has previously advocated for universal school choice policies that benefit students from diverse backgrounds, highlighting their potential impact on Black and Hispanic communities.